Outside Is In: The Trouble with Zebra Mussels

Invasive what? At first, it seems like just a cool new pet or fun hobby accessory to add to the house. But sometimes exotic pets or pet accessories that are native to other countries can be destructive here in Washington state.

For instance, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife issued a notice this week about invasive zebra mussels from Europe that are not native to Washington but are hitching a ride on "Betta Buddy" brand moss balls that people frequently use in aquariums. The moss balls and accompanying zebra mussels become a problem when aquarium owners dump out their tank water and the zebra mussels go down the drain with it and into our environment. 

If it has a chance to reach open water, the zebra mussel can spread and overwhelm entire ecosystems, decimating other species and completely changing the way Washington works and plays.

Stay up on what you are collecting, take the time to educate yourself on purchases, and protect the place you are from. Read more about invasive zebra mussels.